Amy’s travel experience is rich and varied, having meditated with monks in Bhutan, trekked through the rainforests of Malaysia, and set out on sunrise game drives across the Serengeti. Amy therefore has an expert eye for the exceptional, which she brings to her role as Head of Villa Sales and Operations. Amy delights in facilitating stays that go far beyond the villa itself, layering in private wine tastings or discovering the most talented private chefs.
How long have you worked in travel?
Almost 15 years now. Travel and exploring the far-flung corners of the world has always been fascinating to me, so I have been setting off exploring whenever possible. I started work by interning at a leopard camp in India, which was a real baptism of fire but an incredible, life-changing experience. I then returned to work in a luxury travel company in London before being asked to go out to their newly opened Singapore office. I spent four incredible years there, travelling almost every week for work and holiday. I then returned to the UK to start at Red Savannah.
What do you never travel without?
Paw paw cream, which cures any ailment from sunburn, mosquito bites, dry skin, and even nappy rash for children!
What would you wish you had with you if you were stranded on a desert island for six months and why? You can choose a luxury and something practical.
Reading is the best way to take a moment out of the hectic world you sometimes find yourself in and escape to somewhere new, so my luxury item would be a Kindle or six months’ worth of books. The practical item – or is it another luxury? – would have to be a comfy bed; having stayed in more hotel and villa beds than I can count, a good bed can really make a trip (or break it!).
If you could travel with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
Children. Though they can remove the relaxing element of your trip, seeing the world through their fresh, innocent eyes is beautiful. Having explored a huge amount and occasionally finding myself getting complacent, I keep thinking about how a jungle, beach, sunset, cobbled street, and even an airport can still be incredible to behold and provide hours of excitement. If I can request a second person to travel with, it would be someone to help with the kids so I can still slip off for five minutes!!
What is your most memorable travel moment?
Chanting with monks in a remote Bhutanese temple that can only be reached on foot, and watching the sun set over the vast mountains beyond; attending the Harbin Ice Festival in China, where nothing can prepare you for −30 degree temperatures; riding with cowboys on the plains of Idaho, with no one for miles around other than the occasional bear; or visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum while it was still under construction, guided by a world-leading Egyptologist. There are so many memorable moments!
What was your worst travel disaster?
Getting very sick with food poisoning in Mexico and ending up delirious in hospital!!
What’s your secret hidden gem (such as a little bookshop, restaurant, café, little-known museum/gallery, artisan shop)?
There are an array of gems throughout Italy, but rather than listing them, the best thing I can suggest is to arrive earlier in the morning when the shops have just opened to beat the crowds. This way, you can wander quietly with the locals, grabbing the best seat in the house or the freshest delicacies.
What’s the most unusual client request you’ve received and were you able to fulfil it?
I organised for KFC to be delivered to clients at their seats on a moving train in China!
If you hadn’t worked in travel, what would you have liked to have done?
Something outdoors, maybe be a farmer!
If you could retire to anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Asia – it’s my spiritual home. Otherwise, a villa in Tuscany with rolling hills, vineyards all around, and a gelato shop not far away.
Favourite book(s) and why?
Rarely has a book moved me as much as The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese; it evokes every feeling imaginable. Many of the places are real, so I can relive the book when I visit Kerala – which is on my bucket list.
